Therapeutic Potential of Cinnamon in Allergic Disorders: A Narrative Review of Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications

Background: Allergic diseases represent a growing public health challenge due to aberrant immune responses to harmless environmental substances. Natural compounds have emerged as potential modulators of these responses. Cinnamon, a widely used spice with a rich profile of bioactive constituents, has demonstrated notable anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. This narrative review aimed to synthesize current in vitro and in vivo evidence regarding the effects of cinnamon and its derivatives on allergic disease mechanisms. Summary: This narrative review compiles and critically examines findings from experimental studies that investigated the influence of cinnamon on key immunologic processes involved in allergic conditions. The review focuses on the modulation of antigen presentation by dendritic cells and macrophages, alterations in T-cell responses, mast cell stabilization, and the attenuation of airway and skin inflammation. Evidence from various experimental models was integrated to elucidate the molecular pathways affected by cinnamon. The reviewed studies indicate that cinnamon extract can reduce antigen-presenting cell maturation by decreasing co-stimulatory molecule expression and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Additionally, cinnamon appears to stabilize mast cells by impairing receptor binding and disrupting calcium signaling, leading to a reduction in histamine release and other inflammatory mediators. Evidence further suggests that cinnamon modulates T-cell responses by promoting a regulatory immune cell profile and diminishing overall cytokine secretion. In experimental models of respiratory and skin allergies, treatment with cinnamon or its active compounds was associated with decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, improved airway function, and reduced severity of dermatitis-like lesions. Key Messages: The collective evidence from experimental studies suggests that cinnamon holds promise as a natural, multi-target therapeutic agent in managing allergic diseases. Its ability to modulate antigen presentation, stabilize mast cells, and promote regulatory immune responses supports its potential use as an adjunctive treatment for conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis. Further clinical investigations are warranted to optimize dosing strategies, formulations, and long-term safety for its practical application in allergic disease management.